Tag Archives: duels

I’ve read of historic duels between several old families in Jefferson County. The stories always include the participants moving the actual event north about five miles to the “no-man’s’land” at the Florida-Georgia border. The story always further explains that the actual border had not been exactly pinned down at the time, so neither locale’s sheriff felt he had jurisdiction. Therefore the duelists did not worry that dueling had been declared illegal in both states. They were ready to fight!

It’s different now, in 2017 we still duel, oh yes, but we handle these contests in a legal way. Here are the rules: All antagonists must register with the Monticello/Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce. It’s located on West Washington Street. Then they must gather at the dueling grounds on the appointed day – that’s the Old Apron Factory on south Jefferson Street – (you’ll see a Simpson’s Nursery sign) Don’t pay any attention, it’s still the appointed LEGAL dueling grounds.

Most of the historical antagonists tried to keep their duels a secret according to Shofner, but nowadays every one of them blatantly advertises his fight. They ask people to come and watch! It really is a DO NOT MISS event for the whole area. We even invite people from north of the Georgia border.

Located – Pearl and Jefferson

All the duelists will congregate in the Old Apron Factory, South Hwy 19, Monticello, Florida on February 18 @ 5:00 pm – 11:00 pmUnited States+ Google Map for the Monticello Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce Chili Challenge, 2077 S. Jefferson (South Hwy 19), Monticello, FL Set-up 3pm to 4:30pm; Judging 4:30pm to 5pm; Open to the Public 5pm to 7pm –